The ANSC offers a variety of programs for individuals, as well as groups, which include schools, homeschools, and more. Our programs start as young as age 3 and range up to adults. To learn more visit our Education, Events, and Camps and Programs webpages.

What volunteer or internship opportunities are offered at the ANSC?

We offer opportunities for volunteers in many areas of the ANSC including programming, exhibits, landscaping and more. Please see ANSC Volunteer Opportunities for more information.

For internship opportunities please call 512-974-3888 and ask for the Education Supervisor.

Community service restitution volunteers are not accepted at this time.

How do I rent the meeting rooms?

We do not rent out our classrooms or the site.

Does the ANSC host birthday parties for children?

Yes, we do. More information is available on the Camps and Programs webpage, and you may also call Visitor Services at (512) 974-3888. Birthday parties are scheduled/reserved and limited to specific days/months of the year.

What are the hours of the Zilker Nature Preserve?

Dawn to dusk. NOTE: One of the preserve's parking lot areas (under the Mopac overpass off of Nature Center Drive) and road gates (located directly off of Barton Springs Road), are closed and locked each day at 5:00 pm. Please see map.

May I bring my pet?

No, the ANSC and the nature preserves have strict rules that specify no pets. This is to protect resident wildlife.

May I walk off of the trails and explore?

No, the trails are designed to protect the wildlife and other sensitive ecological features. Leave no trace, protect and respect the ANSC site and the preserve land for the next visitor. Nothing may be removed from the parks or preserves.

What can I do when I visit the Austin Nature & Science Center and the surrounding area?

The ANSC is located next to the Zilker Nature Preserve that offers on-your-own hiking and exploration, It can be accessed at a trail head near the Visitor's Pavilion and at the back of the Birds of Prey exhibit during ANSC's regular business hours. Austin's Nature Preserve system offers many opportunities to enjoy nature hikes and nature based programming.

Traveling nature and science related exhibits are hosted in the Visitor's Pavilion periodically with information, when available, on the Exhibits webpage.

Special events (like Austin Nature Day, Fall Festival and other family friendly events) are hosted on site at various times during the year with information, when available, posted on the Events webpage.

The Beverly S. Sheffield Education Center, home of the Splash! exhibit, is a satellite site of the Austin Nature & Science Center located in the Zilker Park Bathhouse at 2201 Barton Springs Road, Austin, TX 78746. Please see map. Staff may be contacted at 512-974-6350.